2026 marks 50 years since Eskdale Mill was opened to the public

In July 1976, following their 5-year restoration of the historic watermill, Cumbria County Council opened the doors for all to appreciate and enjoy.

We want to celebrate this and help to ensure another 50 years for our unique mill.

We are marking this anniversary and celebrating our watermill with a series of community events.

Recent years have seen the restoration of the buildings, machinery, exhibitions and outdoor spaces. Now, we are ready to host a range of workshops, musical events and activities within the scenic meadow.

Dependent on funding, we hope to offer free family-friendly events during the summer holidays.

Other activities are in development. Watch this space for updates ……….

Our first event is scheduled for Thursday 23rd April.

Helen from Elvin Crafts will be delivering a ‘willow-weaving’ workshop where participants will be able to make themselves a rustic garden plant stand.

Due to limited spaces, booking is essential!

Other scheduled events include:

• Identify meadow grasses and flowers with Wild Lakeland, Mon 25th May (£26)
• Greenwood Crafts – Spoonmaking with Steve Tomlin, Sunday 31st May (£110)
• Landscape watercolour painting with Steph Sykes from Check out my Plumage, Sunday 28th June (£50)
• Scything with Steve Tomlin, Thursday 17th September (£110)

All prices include mill admission, tools & equipment and refreshments.

All proceeds go towards our essential income in order to maintain the watermill and keep it open for future generations to enjoy.

Those interested in attending, please register with Kate Hughes, our Mill Manager. She will arrange your deposit and provide more detail.

If you would like to get involved as a volunteer and support our events programme, please get in touch with Kate who will arrange an induction with you.

Kate our Mill Manager commented that ” I look forward to celebrating our watermill with more west Cumbrian folk from all walks of life as well as facilitating a new venture for the charity now that our spaces have been restored. I also look forward to putting the mill on the map as a quality venue for interesting events that appeal to people of all ages and interests.”